The Adventure Program offers a variety of bold activities and services for those wanting to try new things, explore new places, and build their knowledge of the world. Whether you go on a trip or workshop, climb the top rope or bouldering walls, utilize our equipment for rent, or just need a bike repair, you have the ability to make it your own at Iowa State University.

At the current time paddle sport rentals including kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards have been suspended.   

  • A women reaching for a hold on the State Gym climbing wall

    Climbing Walls

    Recreation Services at Iowa State University has climbing walls at State Gym and Lied Rec Center. Top Rope wall is open when staff is there to supervise while Bouldering walls open anytime facilities are open.

    Top-Rope at State Gym is available with all needed equipment available on-site, free of charge. 

  • Biking

    Equipment Rental

    Equipment rental is available at the Adventure Program desk in State Gym. Equipment rental is available for a small fee and is open to both Recreation Services members and non-members.

    Equipment available for rent includes camping supplies, game equipment like sports balls and nets, bicycles, and climbing equipment. 

  • Bicycle maintenance at Recreation Services

    Bike Maintenance

    If you're in need of a brake adjustment, quick tune, or are wanting a safety inspection on your bike, the Adventure Program has you covered. Book an appointment and bring your bike in today so you can get back to your adventure!

Trips and Workshops

Explore the beautiful vistas the United States has to offer with an Adventure Program trip, or hone your outdoor skills with a workshop.

Trips include transportation, food at the destination, technical equipment, logistics and reservations, and a trip leader to plan and manage the trip. Hiking, kayaking, biking, and camping trips are available at various destinations throughout the United States. Trips range in length from a day trip to a week or more.

Spring 2025 Trips and Workshops

EventCostDates 
Rock 1 Workshop

Members: $25

Non-Members: $29

 This is an introductory course to rock climbing. Safety tools and techniques will be the focus. Skills learned will include but are not limited to knots, terminology, gear, and basic belaying techniques. Upon completion of this workshop and three follow-up belays, you will obtain a Belay Card for the ISU climbing wall.
    
Rock 2 Workshop

Members: $25

Non-Members $29

 This is an introductory course to lead climbing. Safety tools and techniques will be the focus. Skills learned will include but are not limited to knots, terminology, gear and basic lead climbing techniques. Upon completion of this course you will receive a Lead Card that will entitle you to lead climb at the ISU Climbing Wall. The prerequisite for this clinic is to be able to climb at a 5.8 level consistently without falls, have had the Rock 1 belay certification for a minimum of 2 months with ample time down at the wall. Upon signing up you will be assigned 3 pre-work times that must be completed during lead hours or scheduled with one of the staff prior to the day of the class.
    
Day Trip: River Kayaking/Canoeing - South Skunk River

$60

 

REGISTER HERE

July 10Come join us on the first of three rivers we will be paddling in July. On this adventure we will be paddling on a stretch of the Des Moines River. Transportation, lunch, and plenty of sun screen will be included, knowing how to swim is the only requirement. This trip will leave from the State Gym loading bay at 8:00am sharp. 
    
Day Trip: River Kayaking/Canoeing - Des Moines River

$60

REGISTER HERE

July 17Come join us on the second of three rivers we will be paddling in July.  On this adventure we will be paddling on a stretch of the South Skunk River ending in Ames. Transportation, lunch, and plenty of sun screen will be included, knowing how to swim is the only requirement.  This trip will leave from the State Gym loading bay at 8:00am sharp. 
    
Day Trip: River Kayaking/Canoeing - Boone River

$60

REGISTER HERE

July 24Come join us on the third and final of this trip series as we paddle a stretch of the Boone River.  Transportation, lunch, and plenty of sun screen will be included, knowing how to swim is the only requirement.  This trip will leave from the State Gym loading bay at 8:00am sharp. 
    
Multi-Day Trip: Intro to Canoeing, Upper Peninsula MI 

$210

REGISTER HERE

July 31 - August 3Weekend Escape: Canoe-Camp the Lakes of Michigan’s Northwoods
Join us for an extended weekend canoe trip to the stunning Sylvania Wilderness. A perfect getaway for beginners and seasoned adventurers alike!